The rugby department of SA Rugby will manage the responsibilities of the Springbok coach, until the national team’s coaching and management group for 2018 is confirmed later this month.

Coetzee and SA Rugby agreed to terminate the relationship after a two-year association.

“First and foremost we had to assess what is in the best interests of the Springboks,” said Jurie Roux, CEO of SA Rugby.

“We’d like to thank Allister for his passion and dedication to the Springbok cause and wish him every success in his next role.”

Coetzee commented: “I have always held Springbok rugby dear to my heart and will continue to do so and for that reason I think now is the time the team and me strike out in new directions. I wish Springbok rugby every success in the future as I have always done.”

Yes, Allister, I think we’re all on board with you striking out in a new direction.

As for the future – call me a cynic, but if we’re bringing in Kings coach Deon Davids then are we really moving forward?